The Dorset Wedding of Pippa and Stuart

I hope Jane Austin was looking on

Dorset is such a beautiful county. Perhaps more associated with Hardy than Austin. Yet it was here that our Elizabeth married her Darcy.

A family affair it was. A day’s grace between torrential downpours. An urgent morning spent catching up on the wash out of the previous day. The groom occupied doing “manly” things (would Darcy put up a Marquee?) The usual bridal things ensued, though in such a relaxed manner. The bride’s family having been here before. Hairdresser. A spot of lunch – why not. If you were younger than most then a chance to dress up. Older…a chance to dress up as well.

Litton Cheney sits amongst rolling chalk hills. The views were as spectacular as the occasion. It felt like you could hop, skip and jump into the sea not far below. Wild flowers. Hints of yellow. Stunning bride. Dashing groom. Our protagonists, Pippa and Stuart, stole glances at each other before the ceremony. A moment to treasure. Bringing out the days themes of laughter and love.

Fluffy white clouds sailed over head. The sun winking in and out. The gravitas and sincerity of the groom’s Uncle. Presiding statesmanlike over the simple ceremony. A surprise song. Readings full of implied meaning. Flowers coated clothing and hair as they passed.

Waltzed in for breakfast amongst thunderous cheers. For the main dish, a hint of the international. A deviation from this quintessential English wedding. Onward into gales of laughter at the speeches. Meandering stories told. All true I am sure!

A snatched 20 minutes away from the crowd. We raced through the village. Down lanes. Bus stop. Fields. The landscape ever present in my mind. As much a character as our bride and groom.

Blessed were we with a sunset that belied the troubles of the previous day. Dancing. Very 21st and certainly not 19th century. Nothing structured. A twirl here. Many hugs there. Clinging to each other. Gazing with love and happiness into each other’s eyes.

“In vain have I struggled. It will not do. My feelings will not be repressed. You must allow me to tell you how ardently I admire and love you.” Jane Austen, Pride And Prejudice

View and buy all the images from the day

The gallery is password protected. Hint: the couple’s home city in lowercase

browse

Instagram

Twitter

I'm heading back to the north in a few weeks. Can't wait. Last years trip was overwhelming. It has taken a while to get my head around the images. This is the Isle of Skye from Torridon, being battered by an epic storm. #PENTAX#Scotlandpic.twitter.com/eisT…